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Library AP Human Geography Unit 4: Political Patterns and Processes
⁂   AP Human Geography · Unit 4

4. Political Patterns and Processes

12–17% of the AP exam. Key topics: Introduction to Political Geography, Political Processes (self-determination, nationalism), Political Power and Territoriality (sovereignty, UNCLOS), Defining Political Boundaries (geometric, physical-political, ethnographic), Boundary Functions and Disputes, Internal Boundaries (electoral districts, gerrymandering), Forms of Governance (unitary vs. federal, democracy vs. autocracy), Devolutionary Factors (ethnic, economic, spatial), Challenges to Sovereignty (supranationalism, terrorism, fragmented states), Centrifugal and Centripetal Forces.

19 instructional periods 12–17% exam weight standard track

Unit 4: Political Patterns and Processes

Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.

Topics in this unit

  • Introduction to Political Geography
  • Political Processes (self-determination, nationalism)
  • Political Power and Territoriality (sovereignty, UNCLOS)
  • Defining Political Boundaries (geometric, physical-political, ethnographic)
  • Boundary Functions and Disputes
  • Internal Boundaries (electoral districts, gerrymandering)
  • Forms of Governance (unitary vs. federal, democracy vs. autocracy)
  • Devolutionary Factors (ethnic, economic, spatial)
  • Challenges to Sovereignty (supranationalism, terrorism, fragmented states)
  • Centrifugal and Centripetal Forces